We are off and running into 2019. The days seems to fly by now. I’m trying to remember what has happened since my last article.

With the Federal Government shutdown, a response to our latest Environmental hearing held in Fruitport, will most likely be delayed; I’ve learned patience. As I travel around, the support for our Muskegon project is very much alive. I’m believing the shutdown will be resolved by the time you read this paper.

I would like to extend a big “Thank You”, “Miigwetch” to everyone who attended the hearing, Tribal Members and community citizens alike! It went fantastically well and almost twice what was expected to attend. There were about 53 people who spoke, and at least 50 of them were in support. Thanks to everyone who spoke on behalf of our project!

Again, thanks go out to Fruitport Schools and School Superintendent, Bob Schmoniak for making the meeting room arrangements happen!

My wife Michele and I were able to attend the inauguration ceremonies for our new Governor, Gretchen Whitmer. The twelve Federally Recognized Tribes of Michigan were invited to present their tribal flags for the ceremony. I believe nine of the 12 Tribes participated. I was honored to carry the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians flag. I must say, temperatures were freezing as we sat for hours, but well worth the event.

In December , I was invited to attend a “thank you” party hosted by outgoing Senator Goeff Hansen. As I have explained previously, Senator Hansen has been supportive of our Tribe over the years.

I will also be attending a community outreach meeting held by Governor Whitmer within the next two weeks. I want to thank Governor Snyder for his work with our Tribe over the years and allowing our Muskegon project to go forward to the Department of Interior.

The new Elder’s Housing Complex is on schedule, as well as the new Odeno community homes we’re building in Fruitport, thanks to the unusually warm weather we’ve been experiencing. Until next month, I want to wish everyone the best for 2019!

Documentation

Constitutional Input Form – Printable form for suggestions on how to change the Tribal Constitution.
Secretarial Election for revision to the Constitution of LRBOI

Tribal Ogema Contact Information

Ogema's comments on pending legislation

As Ogema, I feel it is necessary for me to share my thoughts with our membership regarding pending legislation with our Tribal Government. Check this section of our website regularly for updated comments.